Harvest Pumpkin Scones

Warm, spiced, and irresistibly tender, these Harvest Pumpkin Scones bring the cozy flavors of fall to your kitchen. Packed with cinnamon chips and topped with a sweet sparkle, they're the perfect treat for crisp mornings or afternoon indulgence!

Harvest Pumpkin Scones

I'm here all fall and winter for everything pumpkin!  These Harvest Pumpkin Scones are the perfect blend of cozy fall flavors and comforting texture, making them an irresistible treat for pumpkin lovers. With a hint of pumpkin pie spice, bursts of sweet cinnamon chips, and a delicate crunch from sparkling sugar, they strike the perfect balance between indulgent and homemade charm. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee, serving them at a fall gathering, or simply craving something seasonal, these scones are easy to make and guaranteed to impress!

These scones are surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers! With just a few simple steps, you’ll mix the dry ingredients, cut in the butter, and stir in the wet ingredients to form the dough. No fancy equipment or advanced techniques are needed—just a bowl, a mixing spoon, and a little time. Shaping and cutting the dough is straightforward, and the scones bake quickly, making them a perfect recipe for a cozy weekend treat or a last-minute fall-inspired snack.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

Dry Ingredients:

• All-Purpose Flour 
• Sugar 
• Baking Powder 
• Salt 
• Pumpkin Pie Spice 
• Cinnamon Chips 
• Coarse Sparkling Sugar (optional, for topping)

Wet Ingredients:

• Pumpkin Purée (100% pure pumpkin not pumpkin pie mix)
• Eggs 

Dairy:

• Unsalted Butter 

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

All-Purpose Flour: Swap with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Mix with All-Purpose Flour: For a softer texture, use a blend of 50% whole wheat flour and 50% all-purpose flour (e.g., 1 1/3 cups whole wheat flour + 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour).

Sugar: Use brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor or coconut sugar for a natural alternative.

Pumpkin Pie Spice: Make your own using a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. (see recipe below under Kitchen Tips and Notes)

Cinnamon Chips: Substitute with white chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries for a different twist.

Unsalted Butter: Replace with vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

Coarse Sparkling Sugar: Use regular granulated sugar or omit for a less sweet topping.

Variations

• Chocolate Lovers:  Replace cinnamon chips with chocolate chips or mini chocolate chunks for a rich twist.

• Nutty Delight:  Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

• Cranberry Pumpkin:  Swap out cinnamon chips for dried cranberries to add a sweet and tangy flavor.

• Spiced Orange:  Add orange zest to the dough for a fresh citrus note that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin and spices.

• Sugar-Free or Low-Sugar:  Substitute sugar with coconut sugar, maple syrup, or a natural sweetener like monk fruit.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

Tips

• Homemade pumpkin pie spice blend: 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons ground ginger, 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg. 1 1/2 teaspoons ground allspice, 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cloves

Notes

Dough Tips

• Keep Ingredients Cold: Use cold butter and eggs to ensure a flaky texture. You can even chill the flour beforehand.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until it comes together to avoid tough scones. Overworking the dough can develop gluten and make them dense.

Shaping the Dough

• Flour Your Surface: Lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking, but avoid using too much flour, which can dry out the dough.
• Even Sizing: Shape the dough into a flat round and cut into equal wedges for even baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Fresh is Best: Scones are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Serve warm with butter, jam, or even a drizzle of maple glaze.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze unbaked scones for later use. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

     Equipment You May Need     

• Baking Sheets

• Parchment Paper Sheets

• Pumpkin Pie Spice

• Mixing Bowls

• Wooden Spoons

• Rubber Spatula

• Cooling Rack

• Coarse Sparkling Sugar

• Wood Cutting Board

• Air Tight Containers

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

Harvest Pumpkin Scones



Yield: 8 scones



2 3/4 cups All-Purpose Flour
1/3 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
1 heaping cup cinnamon chips
2/3 cup pumpkin purée
2 large eggs
Coarse sparkling sugar, for topping

Preheat the oven to 425°F.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.  Work in the butter just until the mixture is  crumbly with pea sized butter pieces.

Stir in the cinnamon chips.  In a small bowl whisk together the pumpkin and eggs until smooth.  Add to the dry ingredients and stir until all is moistened and holds together.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.  Scrape the dough onto a lightly floured cutting board.  Divide it in half.  With each half create a 5 - 6" round circle about 3/4" thick.  Repeat with the second half of dough.  Sprinkle each circle with coarse white sparkling sugar or cinnamon sugar.

Using a knife or bench knife slice each circle into 6 wedges.    Carefully separate the wedges and place them on the parchment lined baking sheet about 1/2" apart.  

Bake the scones for 22 to 25 minutes, or until they're golden brown and dry on top.  Place scones on a cooling rack to cool and serve warm.  

Last Minute Simple Holiday Treats: Marble Bark

Indulge in the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor with Marble Bark! This irresistible treat combines creamy swirls of chocolate in a beautifully marbled design, creating a delightful snack that's as satisfying to look at as it is to enjoy. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or savoring all to yourself!

Marble Bark

In need of a last-minute holiday treat that's easy to whip up? Marble Bark is not only stunning to look at but also incredibly simple to make and irresistibly delicious!  Even if you're new to the kitchen,  bark is so simple and foolproof that anyone can make it—it's a perfect recipe to try with kids for some fun, hands-on creativity!  With just 4 simple ingredients, this bark recipe is an easy and stress-free treat that delivers big on flavor and presentation!

Marble Bark is the ultimate treat that checks all the boxes—it's beautiful, delicious, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you're looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert, a thoughtful homemade gift, or a festive addition to your holiday table, this treat has you covered. The combination of rich dark and creamy white chocolate, crunchy almonds, and bursts of jewel-like dried fruit creates a flavor and texture experience that's hard to resist. Plus, it’s a no-fuss recipe that comes together in minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules or last-minute plans. Impress your loved ones with a treat that looks gourmet but is delightfully simple to prepare!

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

• semisweet chocolate chips

• white chocolate chips

• Dried cranberries, cherries, and golden raisins mix

• Roasted almonds

• Optional: Parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Semisweet chocolate chips → Substitute with dark chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, or a chopped chocolate bar.

• White chocolate chips → Use white chocolate melts or almond bark.

• Dried cranberries, cherries, and golden raisins mix → Swap with any dried fruit you have, like apricots, blueberries, or figs.

• Roasted almonds, chopped → Replace with any nuts or seeds, such as pecans, walnuts, pistachios, or sunflower seeds—or omit entirely for a nut-free version.

Variations

• Nut-Free Delight: Skip the nuts and use crunchy toppings like pretzel pieces, crushed cookies, or toffee bits for texture.

• Festive Colors: Use holiday-themed sprinkles, colored candy melts, or edible glitter to match the season or occasion.

• Peppermint Bark: Add crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for a cool, minty twist.

• Salty-Sweet Combo: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or incorporate salted peanuts or pretzels.

• Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even chili powder to the chocolate for a unique flavor profile.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Melt Chocolate Gently: Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each, to prevent it from burning. Alternatively, use a double boiler for a more controlled melt.

• Smooth, Even Layers: When spreading the melted chocolate on the baking sheet, use a spatula to create an even layer. If you want a thinner bark, spread it out further; for thicker bark, keep it more compact.

• Swirling Chocolate: For a perfect marbled effect, drop spoonfuls of each chocolate onto the sheet and then swirl them together gently with a toothpick or knife. Don’t overdo it—just a few swirls create a beautiful design.

• Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy removal and cleanup. The bark will lift off without sticking.

Notes

• Chocolate Quality: The better the chocolate, the better the bark will taste! Consider using high-quality chocolate chips or even couverture chocolate for a smoother, richer finish.

• Toppings Placement: For the most visually appealing bark, press the toppings gently into the chocolate before it sets, ensuring they stick well without sinking too deep.

• Even Thickness: To avoid uneven bark, try to spread the chocolate as evenly as possible. If you want a uniform thickness, consider measuring the spread with a ruler or using a shallow tray.

• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add flavor extracts (vanilla, almond, or orange) to the melted chocolate for an extra layer of taste.

• Portioning: If you want smaller pieces, break the bark into irregular chunks after it has set, or use a knife to score it before it hardens completely, making it easier to break into pieces.

• Gift Packaging: Marble Bark makes a great gift! For a festive touch, wrap it in clear cellophane bags and tie with a ribbon, or place pieces in small mason jars with labels.

     Equipment     

• glass bowls - microwave safe prep bowls

• spatula - a kitchen workhorse

• baking sheets - sturdy and multiple sizes

• parchment paper - pre-cut 100pcs great buy!

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

Marble Bark

12 oz semisweet chocolate chips
6 oz white chocolate chips
3 - 4 Tbsp dried cranberries, cherries, and golden raisins mixed
3 - 4 Tbsp roasted almonds, chopped

Line an baking sheet with parchment paper.

Place semisweet chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl and heat chocolate in 30 second intervals, stirring each time until melted and smooth (about 1-2 minutes). Place white chocolate chips in another microwave safe bowl and heat chocolate in 30 second intervals, stirring after each interval until melted and smooth (about 1 1/2 minutes).

Pour melted semisweet chocolate into prepared pan and spread with a spatula in to a large rectangle (don't spread too thin). Dollop melted white chocolate by teaspoons over the semisweet chocolate and swirl together with a wooden skewer.  Top with dried cranberries, cherries, and raisins.  Top with chopped almonds.  Place the pan in the refrigerator for 1 hour or until the bark is set.

Using the parchment paper lift and place bark on a cutting board; either cut into squares or break off into pieces.  Pack in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.  

One Pot Meal: Turkish-Style Pilau

A hearty, one-pot Turkish pilau bursting with flavor and simplicity!

Turkish-Style Pilau

Turkish pilau is a simply a rice dish that includes meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices.  While not a classic preparation, today’s recipe captures the essence of Turkish flavors in a convenient one-pot dish.  Basmati rice bakes with ground turkey, onions, crisp green beans, and sweet dried apricot until the grains are tender. But, the deliciousness doesn't stop there; pre-made tzatziki adds a creamy element, along with fresh mint and pistachios for crunch. This is incredibly easy to make, with simple steps that require minimal prep and just one pot for cooking. The all-in-one method ensures a hassle-free experience, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

This one-pot Turkish-Style Pilau is a flavorful and wholesome dish that combines tender ground turkey, vibrant green beans, sweet dried apricots, and aromatic spices for a balanced meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. Its simple, single-pot method makes cleanup a breeze, while the addition of walnuts and fresh mint elevates the dish with a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish, it’s a versatile recipe that captures the essence of Turkish-inspired cuisine.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

• Produce
• green beans
• yellow onion
• dried apricots
• Fresh mint

• Protein
• Ground turkey

• Grains
• Basmati rice

• Dairy
• Tzatziki sauce

• Pantry Staples
• Olive oil
• Salt & pepper
• Turkish seasoning
• Chicken broth or stock

• Nuts
• Walnuts

Substitutions and Variations

• Ground turkey: Substitute with ground chicken, beef, lamb, or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.

• Green beans: Swap with asparagus, zucchini, snap peas, or bell peppers.

• Yellow onion: Use red onion, white onion, shallots, or even leek.

• Dried apricots: Replace with raisins, dried cranberries, dried cherries, or chopped dates.

• Basmati rice: Use jasmine rice, long-grain white rice, quinoa, or bulgur wheat.

• Turkish seasoning: Substitute with a mix of ground cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cinnamon or allspice.

• Chicken broth: Replace with vegetable broth, beef broth, or even water with a bouillon cube for added flavor.

• Walnuts: Use almonds, pistachios, pine nuts, or skip entirely for a nut-free option.

• Fresh mint: Substitute with fresh parsley, cilantro, basil, or dill.

• Tzatziki Sauce:  Use plain Greek yogurt mixed with minced garlic, cucumber, dill, and a squeeze of lemon juice, or substitute with sour cream or a yogurt-based dip of your choice.

• For a Vegetarian Version:  Replace ground turkey with chickpeas, lentils, or cubed tofu.  Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.  Include diced tomatoes or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.

• For a Mediterranean-Inspired Version: Add sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and olives.  Use oregano, thyme, and fresh parsley instead of mint.  Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Prepare Ingredients in Advance:  Dice vegetables, chop herbs, and measure spices before starting. This makes the cooking process smoother and prevents overcooking.

• Use a Tight-Fitting Lid:  When simmering the pilau, ensure the pot has a tight-fitting lid to trap steam and cook the rice evenly.

     Items You May Need   

• Turkish Seasoning
• Wood Cutting Board
• Chef Knife
• Covered Braiser
• Dutch Oven

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

Turkish-Style Pilau

serves 6


10 oz of ground turkey
1 lb green beans
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 Tablespoon olive oil
salt & pepper
4 oz dried apricots, diced
1 1/4 cups basmati rice
2 teaspoons Turkish Seasoning
3 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 - 1/3 cup fresh mint, chopped
1/2 cup tzatziki sauce

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.  Trim green beans and cut into 1 inch pieces.  In a Dutch oven heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium high heat.  Add the onions and cook until slightly softened and lightly browned, 2-3 minutes.  Move the onions to one side of the pan and add in the ground turkey.  Season everything in the pan with salt & pepper.  Break meat up into large pieces and allow to cook undisturbed until browned on the bottom, about 4-5 minutes.  The meat will finish cooking in the oven.

Add in rice, green beans, and Turkish seasonings to the skillet.  Add the broth, apricots, and scrape up any browned bits on the bottom of the pan.  Turn the heat up to high and bring to a boil.

Cover with a lid and transfer to the oven.  Back 17 minutes until the meat is cooked through and the rice has absorbed the liquid and is tender.  Fluff rice with a fork.  Check for seasoning and add salt & pepper as needed.  

Stir mint into the rice.  Slightly thin out the tzatziki by stirring in 1 teaspoon (or more if needed) of water until thin enough to drizzle.  Plate the Pilau into bowls and drizzle with tzatziki and sprinkle with walnuts on top.

Cheesy Turkey Marinara Meatballs

Cheesy Turkey Marinara Meatballs are tender, flavorful cheese & turkey meatballs simmered in a rich marinara sauce and topped with more gooey, melted cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for pairing with pasta, crusty bread, or enjoying on its own as a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal!

Cheesy Turkey Marinara Meatballs

Cheesy Turkey Marinara Meatballs are such a great meatball recipe that I've made them twice this week!  Once with ground turkey which is what this recipe is, and again using ground beef.  You are going to just love these.  They are a delicious and nutritious choice for a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. The combination of lean ground turkey and flavorful spices makes these meatballs very tasty will being tender and cheesy.  They taste really delicious! 

They are incredibly quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknights and weekends when you need a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can mix the turkey, cheese, and spices, then scoop the mixture into meatballs—no complicated steps required. Simply bake in the oven, giving you time to prep a side dish or relax. You'll have a hearty meal ready in under an hour. 

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

Meat & Dairy:

• 2 lbs ground turkey - 7% or 15% fat for juicy meatballs
• grated Parmesan
• egg
• mozzarella cheese - for shredding

Herbs & Spices:

• onion powder
• fresh garlic
• Italian seasoning
• black pepper
• cayenne pepper
• crushed red pepper flakes
• fresh basil or parsley (for topping)

Sauces & Condiments:

• 1 24 oz. jar Marinara sauce

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Turkey: Substitute with ground chicken, lean ground beef, or a mix of beef and pork for a different protein base.

• Cheese:  Use cheddar, provolone, gouda, or Monterey Jack instead of mozzarella or Parmesan for a unique flavor twist.

• Marinara Sauce:  Swap with homemade tomato sauce, Alfredo sauce, or a creamy pink sauce for a different flavor profile.

• Seasonings:  Replace Italian seasoning with fresh or dried oregano, thyme, or basil to customize the herb blend.

• Spice Level:  Omit cayenne and red pepper flakes for a milder dish, or add chili powder or sriracha for more heat.

These substitutions ensure flexibility while keeping the dish delicious and satisfying!

Variations

• Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly:  Serve the meatballs over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or on their own instead of pasta.

• Herby Delight:  Mix in fresh chopped herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano into the meatballs for a burst of fresh flavor.

• Vegetable Boost:  Add finely grated zucchini, carrots, or spinach to the meatball mixture for added nutrition and moisture.

These simple changes allow for a variety of flavors while maintaining the essence of the dish!

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Use Ground Turkey with Some Fat:  Opt for ground turkey with a little fat (not 99% lean) to keep the meatballs tender and flavorful.

• Don’t Overmix:  Gently combine the ingredients to avoid dense meatballs. Overmixing can make them tough.

• Uniform Meatballs:  Use a small cookie scoop or wet your hands to shape evenly sized meatballs for consistent cooking.

• Presentation Tip:  Top with fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan just before serving for a restaurant-style finish.

• Moist Meatballs:  Turkey can be lean, so don’t skip the cheese and egg in the mixture; they add moisture and help prevent the meatballs from drying out.

• Sauce Quality Matters:  Use a high-quality store-bought marinara or make your own for the best flavor. A robust sauce complements the mild turkey meatballs perfectly.

• Serving Suggestions:  Serve over pasta, rice, polenta, zucchini noodles, or with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.

• Make-Ahead and Freezing:  Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them raw or cooked. Reheat in marinara sauce when ready to serve for a quick meal.

• Portion Size:  This recipe makes a generous batch of meatballs, great for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Halve the recipe if cooking for a smaller group.

     Items you may need     

Mixing Bowls
Casserole Dish

Small Cookie Scoop

Marinara Sauce




    Other Meatball Recipes     

Moroccan Meatballs with Pita, Tomatoes, and Cucumbers

Grilled Chicken Kofta

Mongolian Meatballs

Asian Meatballs in Lettuce Wraps

Piri Piri Turkey Meatballs

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

Cheesy Turkey Marinara Meatballs

yield:  21 - 25 meatballs

2 lbs ground turkey
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
1 egg
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons fresh minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper,
a pinch crushed red pepper flakes
1 jar Marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, for topping

Preheat the oven to 400ºF.  Lightly spray a large casserole dish with cooking spray.

Combine ground turkey, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, onion powder, garlic, Italian seasoning, cayenne, and crushed red pepper flakes in a large mixing bowl. Mix gently to incorporate the ingredients.  Use a small cookie scoop to form the meatballs and arrange in the casserole dish 1 inch apart.  Use two casserole dishes if necessary.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove from the oven.  Top with the Marinara sauce and shredded cheese bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese has fully melted.

Serve with a side salad and crusty bread, over pasta, rice or zucchini noodles.

Cider Pumpkin Waffles

Indulge in the cozy flavors of the season with Cider Pumpkin Waffles—warm spices, rich pumpkin, and a hint of apple cider in every golden, fluffy bite. Perfect for crisp autumn mornings or festive winter brunches!

Cider Pumpkin Waffles

Today's recipe tastes so good I know you are going to love them!  Cider Pumpkin Waffles are a cozy and flavorful breakfast treat that blends the essence of autumn and winter. These waffles are made with a rich batter incorporating smooth pumpkin puree and a splash of apple cider, and boiled cider for added oomph, creating a perfect harmony of seasonal flavors. Warm pumpkin pie spices infuse the waffles with a fragrant, spiced aroma reminiscent of a crisp fall morning or a festive winter holiday.

The waffles have a golden, slightly crisp exterior with a tender, fluffy interior. They pair beautifully with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkling of powdered sugar. For an extra indulgence, top them with caramelized apples or pecans to enhance their rustic charm. These waffles are ideal for a cozy breakfast or brunch, celebrating the best flavors of the colder months.  Plus, they're easy to make, versatile, and sure to impress family and friends!  Make this large batch and freeze any leftovers for a warm comforting breakfast all through the season.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

• Dairy
• Unsalted butter
• Large eggs

• Canned Goods
• Pumpkin puree

• Baking
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Pumpkin pie spice
• Kosher salt

• Pantry
• Vanilla extract
• Maple syrup

• Beverages
• Apple cider
• Boiled cider (optional) - can be purchased here

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Unsalted Butter: Use melted coconut oil, vegetable oil, or unsweetened applesauce for a dairy-free or lower-fat option.

• Pumpkin Puree: Substitute with sweet potato puree

• Apple Cider: Use apple juice or a mix of water and a touch of apple cider vinegar for a similar flavor.

• Boiled Cider: Omit or reduce apple cider in a saucepan until thickened for a homemade substitute.

• Vanilla Extract: Swap with a small amount of maple flavoring.

• All-Purpose Flour: Replace with whole wheat flour, oat flour, or a gluten-free flour blend for dietary needs.

• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Mix cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves if you don’t have pre-made spice.

• Kosher Salt: Use sea salt or table salt, but adjust the quantity (table salt is finer and saltier).

These swaps ensure flexibility without losing the warm, cozy flavor of the waffles!

Variations

• Top the waffles with caramelized apple slices or an apple compote.

• Add ½ cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the batter for added crunch and flavor.

• Sprinkle extra nuts on top with a drizzle of maple syrup for serving.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients:  Bring eggs, butter, and other refrigerated ingredients to room temperature to ensure a smooth batter and even cooking.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter:  Stir the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined to keep the waffles light and fluffy. Overmixing can make them dense.

• Preheat the Waffle Iron Properly:  Allow your waffle iron to heat thoroughly before adding batter for crispy exteriors. A properly heated iron also helps prevent sticking.

• Grease the Waffle Iron:  Even if your waffle maker is non-stick, lightly grease it with a brush or spray before each batch to ensure easy removal.

• Concentrate the Apple Cider Flavor:  The addition of Boiled Cider gives the dish a concentrated apple flavor plus it will last in your refrigerator up to 6 months.  If you are not using you can simmer apple cider on low heat to reduce it by half before adding it to the batter in addition to the regular called for apple cider.

• Freeze Extras:  Make a double batch and freeze leftovers. Cool waffles completely, wrap them in parchment, and store in an airtight container. Reheat in a toaster or oven for a quick breakfast.

• Check for Doneness:  Don’t rely on the waffle iron’s indicator light alone. Peek inside to ensure the waffles are golden and crisp to your liking.

• Serving Ideas:  These waffles pair beautifully with seasonal toppings like whipped cream, toasted pecans, spiced apple compote, or a drizzle of maple syrup. For a festive twist, add caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar.

These tips help ensure your waffles are perfectly cooked, flavorful, and ready to impress!

     Items you may need     

Boiled Cider

Mixing Bowls 

Mixing Bowls with Lids

Belgian Waffle Maker with Pancake Plates

Dash Mini Waffle Maker

Round Belgian Waffle Maker

Spatula

Small Tongs

Platter

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

Cider Pumpkin Waffles

serves 6

6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 1/2 cups apple cider

1 Tablespoon boiled cider
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons maple syrup
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Add all the butter to a medium pot over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt and brown, until it smells toasted, about 2-3 minutes, stirring often. Remove from the heat and pour into a large mixing bowl. Whisk in the pumpkin, cider, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla. Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt, stir until just combined.

Preheat your waffle iron. Cook the waffles according to your waffle iron's directions. Serve topped with butter and maple syrup if desired.